How to Prevent Mercury Retrograde in Your Relationship

Folks, the last Mercury retrograde of 2024 is upon us.

As a personal planet, Mercury rules communication, money, and exchange, and has a direct impact on our daily lives and intimate relationships.

As the fastest moving planet in the solar system, Mercury goes retrograde three to four times a year.

When you consider the shadow period of retrograde—and as a recovering goth kid, I always think about shadows—humanity is at the mercy of Mercury’s deceleration showdown for up to six months each year.

Mercury to the Romans and Hermes to the Greeks, the messenger of the gods whose lines of communication stretched from the milky manna peaks of Olympus to the underworld The depths of the snatched girl.

How does Mercury retrograde affect us?

Similar in scope, Mercury’s influence can serve the lower lesser wrathful modes or the better angels of poetry, understanding, and human communication.

Because of Mercury’s personal nature and proximity, its retrograde can be a challenge for all of us—perhaps especially for lovers and those seeking love.

In fact, 71% of those surveyed admitted that Mercury retrograde hurt their love lives.

How long will Mercury retrograde last?

Mercury retrograde begins on November 25th, and while Mercury goes direct on December 15th, we will be affected by this transit until January 1st, when the coyote planet finally clears its post-retrograde shadow, also known as Retrograde shadow.

What sign are you in now with Mercury retrograde?

Now, on the first day of the year, Mercury is retrograde in Sagittarius, then retrograde, encouraging existential thinking, philosophical conflicts, and questions about what love, freedom, partnership, and expansion look like in a broken world.

EVA AI, a leading digital replication company, provides us with practical advice and compassionate answers on how to protect our relationships and keep the flame of love burning like butane during this high-profile season .

Read on to learn more.

forgive

The root of the word forgiveness comes from Old English forgive It means “giving up the power to punish.” In this sense, during this transit it is best to lay down your emotional weapons of war and extend grace, even if you would rather vent your anger.

EVA AI insists, “During Mercury retrograde, mistakes are not only possible, but inevitable. Did you forget your anniversary? Did you mistakenly send that sexy text to your stepmom?” Cut yourself and your partner some slack. A little self-forgiveness goes a long way and if you can admit it, you’re already halfway to finding a solution. Mistakes are only part of the romantic comedy in your relationship. plot twist.”

In the words of my good friend Rick Robertson, try to understand misfortune as “a twist rather than an ending.”

Communicate openly and honestly

Mercury retrograde is notorious (and evil) for blurring the simplest information into ugly riddles, complicated confessions, and inciting emotions.

While Mercury loves to stir the proverbial pot, you can make sure the ingredients are clean.

EVA AI advises: “If something is bothering you, share it. Use words, emojis, explanatory dance—whatever is needed to express it clearly. The goal here is to leave no room for misunderstanding.”

It is much better to be overtly exaggerated than to be vaguely offensive.

Practice active listening

Mercury not only interferes with our messaging; It tests our patience.

During this retrograde cycle, I challenge you to practice active listening with your partner, especially when the subject matter is difficult or emotionally charged.

By maintaining eye contact and keeping your damn mouth shut, you not only make sure you hear your partner—but your partner feel heard.

EVA AI shared, “Listen, act like your relationship depends on it (because it does now).”

When you respond (don’t respond, since active listening requires measured comments), avoid the ugly crutch of sarcasm or simple insults.

There are few times when kindness is not needed.

focus on issues

When tensions rise, it’s easy to let “you forgot to take out the trash” snowball into “you never valued/cared/loved/supported me!”

EVA AI advises: “Solve the problem, not your partner. Resist the urge to attack personally and instead work together to identify and solve the real problem—whether it’s miscommunication, a chaotic schedule, or a lack of quality time.”

compromise

In the words of my former couples therapist, “Do you want to be right, or do you want to be in a relationship?”

Turns out I guess was right, Dan.

I digress, argue less during Mercury retrograde because winning or losing will ultimately hurt both parties. As EVA AI says, “Compromise is not failure, but compromise.” There is love. “

Guys, embroider it on a throw pillow and call it progress.

sincerely apologize

EVA AI shares: “We’ve all been on the receiving end of a half-hearted ‘sorry,’ but it’s as satisfying as a decaf coffee or a half-hearted hand job. Admit your mistakes, own the hurt you’ve caused , explain what happened (no excuses), and express your desire to make things right on your partner’s timeline.”

Pro tip: Using the word “but” in an apology automatically negates it. When you make a mistake, be sure to swallow your pride and take it seriously.

Respect your partner’s boundaries

Sometimes love looks like giving and taking space, guys.

EVA AI says: “Everyone’s tolerance levels reach disturbing lows during retrograde. Respect your partner’s need for space, quiet, or even a night of non-stop doom-scrolling. Whether that’s Emotional breathing space or a simple request not to have deep conversations after 10 p.m. Respecting boundaries means respecting your relationship.”

Astrology 101: Your Guide to the Stars

Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and respectfully reports on planetary configurations and their effects on each sign. Her horoscopes are a blend of history, poetry, pop culture and personal experiences. To book a reading, visit her website.